The role of family and friend social support in reducing risk behaviors among HIV-positive Gay men

Abstract

Researchers have intimated a link between social support and risk-taking behaviors for HIV-positive persons, yet few have empirically examined this assumption. This study examined HIV-positive Gay men regarding their perceptions of family and friend social support, behavioral intentions, and risk-taking behaviors. Results indicated that the more family members were perceived as supportive the less likely participants intended to behave in risky ways. In addition, family availability for support was more predictive of reduced risky behaviors than the availability of friends. Implications for researchers and helping professionals are discussed.

PIP: This study examined HIV positive gay men concerning their perceptions of family and friend social support, behavioral intentions, and risk-taking behaviors. The study hypothesized that HIV positive gay men who perceived their family and friends as providing social support and who utilized social support from their family and friends would intend to behave in less risky ways and would engage in fewer risk behaviors. A total of 142 HIV positive men were interviewed from an AIDS Clinical Trial Unit associated with a large Midwestern university in the US. Results indicated that as more family members perceived to be as supportive, the less likely participants intended to behave in risky ways. In addition, family available for support was more predictive of reduced risky behaviors than the availability of friends. Such results highlight the need for support by the distinct group and the importance of families and family professionals in preventing and reducing the spread of HIV.